Your doctor has recommended you for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of your pituitary gland. The pituitary is a very small hormone-producing gland located behind the nose. MRI technology uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed image slices (cross sections) of the head. An MRI produces good soft-tissue images and allows the physician to evaluate different types of body tissue, as well as distinguish normal, healthy tissue from diseased tissue. Our team of specialist physicians will use these images to make a detailed study of your pituitary gland and to find possible problems. Our team of physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Barry D. Pressman, MD, Chief of Head and Neck Radiology.

Before Arriving for Your Exam

If you are claustrophobic (fearful of small, enclosed areas) or experience pain when lying on your back for more than 30 minutes, your referring physician may prescribe a relaxant or pain medication to help you through the exam. The imaging physicians at Cedars-Sinai will not prescribe such medications for you.

We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time.

You may also bring a CD to listen to during the procedure.

Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.

Please wear comfortable clothing.

After Arriving

You must tell the technologist, radiology nurse and/or imaging physician of any allergies you may have and if you are pregnant or are nursing.

You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire which will determine if an MRI is safe for you. People with various implants (usually metallic) or with metal in their bodies (including some tattoos) may have difficulty with an MRI - which utilizes a strong magnetic field. The imaging physician needs to be informed of any of these potential problems.

During the Exam

For this exam, you will be asked to lie down on the scanning table, head-first with arms at your side.

Coils (special devices to improve image quality) may be placed around your head.

The scanning table will slide your whole body into the magnet.

During the scan you will not feel anything, but will hear intermittent humming, thumping, clicking and knocking sounds.

Earplugs will be provided to help mask the noise and to allow you to listen to music.

In most cases, the imaging physician requests a contrast agent (dye) to improve the quality of the images. The contrast agent is injected into a vein in the arm, which may cause a cool sensation.

As pictures are taken, you must hold very still, and in some cases, hold you breath.

The technologist is always able to see and hear you during the exam.

The MRI exam takes approximately 45 minutes.

After Your Exam

There are no restrictions placed upon you. You may eat or drive as normal.

Your films will be examined by an imaging physician and a report sent to your doctor. Your doctor will review the results with you.

To request a copy of your images on a CD or film, call 310-423-8000. To request a copy of your report, call 310-423-8000.